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Lara & Rob at their reception

Gracie Leaming + Garren West

On Cloud Nine

Former Kindergarten Companions Find Wedded Bliss in Bozeman

This pair’s connection stretches all the way back to kindergarten in Colorado; they attended the same elementary school until Gracie moved after third grade. They didn’t keep in touch until high school, when they reconnected through mutual friends — and have been inseparable since. (They credit their very similar sense of humor.) The duo knew they wanted to get married in Bozeman since, having lived in Bozeman (and Billings too) for the last three years, the destination had become a special, important place in their relationship, allowing them to make their own path and grow as individuals. They chose the Armory, truly their only choice, since it so perfectly combines the modern feel they knew they wanted for a formal wedding set against a more rugged, naturally beautiful backdrop. Although they’re very adventurous, an outdoorsy wedding never felt like a great fit. They love the simple elegance of the Armory, plus they’ve enjoyed many date nights together up in Sky Shed.

Photography by Alchemy Creative


Memorable Details

They chose to not have a wedding party, allowing themselves to be surrounded by friends and family all weekend without having to coordinate other details. On the wedding morning, Garren went out for a hike while Gracie got ready in the presidential suite — creating exactly the lowkey, fun and relaxing day they had envisioned for months. Their first look and ceremony in the Sky Shed proved “perfect,” thanks to gorgeous venue views complemented by a fairytale feeling created by Sue and team from the Wild Blume, with a baby's breath “cloud” and wild poufs of baby’s breath on the ground.

a couple kissing under a tree of flowers

“If anyone is feeling like the Armory might be the right place or could be the right place for their wedding, I want you to know that it IS the most perfect place for your day.”

a couple kissing under a tree of flowers

The couple would “a million percent recommend” their experience with the Armory. Dana brought every single vision to life, answered each email with detail and clarity, and was the reason the planning process proved as low stress as possible.

a couple kissing under a tree of flowers
a couple kissing under a tree of flowers

The ceremony in the Sky Shed featured natural light, stunning views and enhancements of unique, baby’s breath creations. The bride wore a gown by Sarah Seven from Lovely Bride Denver, and the groom wore a tux by Hugo Boss. The aim of the ceremony was to capture the love, commitment and respect the couple has for one another, and they chose to write and share personal vows to make the day feel even more special. Every guest at the wedding was someone who holds great importance and has filled the couple’s lives with so much love and support.

The couple found the cocktail hour and reception downstairs in the Music Hall to be “flawless,” featuring a classic color scheme of white and black with baby's breath and anemones lining the tables, alongside olive green napkins and inviting candles to enhance the lighting. Beautiful, long tables seated 24 guests apiece, and the room was anchored by a center table, too. The couple calls the reception “easy and natural,” which is all they could've asked for. One fun twist? They were able to share pickle shots with their guests, something Gracie’s family loves — and coordinator Dana helped make happen.

a couple kissing under a tree of flowers